2020 Nissan Murano Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Over the years, the Murano has remained one of Nissan’s highest-rated family haulers. Drivers appreciate this midsize crossover’s spacious seating and stylish exterior. Meanwhile, optional all-wheel drive helps the Murano to confidently tackle wintry weather.

Can the new Murano continue to thrive in such a cutthroat segment? Several new models have recently hit the market, which boast many adoring qualities.

What’s New for 2020?

With the competition being stiffer than ever, Nissan decided to give the Murano just a few updates. Even the base model now offers Nissan Safety Shield 360, which brings some additional accident-avoidance features.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Nissan Murano – The Pros

1. Rock-Solid V6 Engine

Nissan’s VQ Series V6 engine has been around for quite some time. However, this award-winning engine is still an impressive performer. With a total of 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque on tap, you will have no issues with the SUV’s responsiveness. Although the Murano may not be great for towing, acceleration is solid. It can reach 60 mph in around 7.3 seconds. In regard to fuel efficiency, expect the Murano to return a combined 23 mpg on regular gas.

2. Good Vehicle for the Snow

The 2020 Nissan Murano isn’t engineered for off-roading. Nevertheless, it is a good choice for driving through the snow. Every trim offers an intelligent AWD system as an option. When leaving home on a wintry day, you’ll appreciate the extra peace of mind. Because this AWD system can automatically switch to a 2WD setting when extra grip isn’t needed, fuel economy is unaffected. Nearly seven inches of ground clearance also helps make the Murano a recommended winter vehicle.

3. Easy to Drive

In comparison to a truck-based SUV, the 2020 Nissan Murano offers far better handling. Its car-based platform helps minimize body roll when cornering. You’ll also appreciate this crossover’s speed-sensitive steering system, which helps make it easier to operate in tight spots. Nissan’s Xtronic transmission further aids the Murano’s easygoing nature. Simply step on the gas and the crossover accelerates smoothly from a stop. Meanwhile, a well-designed braking system makes it easy to bring the Murano to a stop.

4. Edgy Exterior Design

The 2020 Nissan Murano has one of the most striking exterior designs in the segment. It’s a perfect match for drivers who want to get noticed. A bold V-Motion grille and aggressive lines help the Murano to make a compelling statement. Sharp LED headlights come standard on every trim. While the base model is handsome in its own right, available 20-inch wheels give the crossover an even flashier look. A blacked-out Midnight Edition package is available for folks who desire an extra coolness factor.

5. Extremely Comfortable Seating

When riding in the 2020 Nissan Murano, your family and friends don’t have to worry about not having enough room. Rear legroom is excellent. Great seat comfort is another plus for the new Murano. Nissan’s standard Zero Gravity front seats do a superb job of comfortably supporting your body. Meanwhile, reclining rear seats help passengers riding in the back to relax. Some premium amenities are available on the upper trims, including climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row seats.

6. Valuable Safety Features on Every Trim

Even if you don’t want to spend any extra money by adding options, the 2020 Nissan Murano still provides some helpful driver-assist technologies. Forward collision warning, which is one of today’s hottest safety features, is standard on the new Murano. Not only will the system alert you to an unexpected vehicle ahead, but it can also activate your brakes. A Rear Seat reminder makes life easier for parents and pet owners. Driver drowsiness is also standard.

7. Platinum Trim Feels Quite Luxurious

If you desire the best of the best, step up to the range-topping Platinum trim. It comes loaded with several premium upgrades. When sliding behind the wheel of the Murano Platinum, you’ll immediately notice its diamond-quilted leather seats. A dual-panel panoramic sunroof creates a calmer atmosphere. This is also the only trim that provides seat ventilation. Other niceties include power-folding rear seats, high-beam assist, and a power-adjustable steering wheel.

8. Bose Premium Audio System Sounds Inspiring

Aside from the base model, all of the other Murano trims offer an upgraded audio system. Bose’s 16-speaker system has received some outstanding reviews. Critics rave about the system’s overall clarity. Even when increasing the volume, audio quality remains solid. The system also packs a good amount of bass. Dual subwoofers allow you to almost feel the beat of a drum. Easy operation makes this system even more impressive.

9. Around View Monitor Greatly Improves Visibility

All versions of the 2020 Nissan Murano receive a standard backup camera. However, you can upgrade to Nissan’s Around View Monitor. This four-camera system gives you a complete view of your surroundings. When stuck in a crowded parking garage, you’ll have a much easier time spotting obstacles. Moving Object Detection is built into the system. As you start to pull out of a parking space, this technology helps detect obstacles coming into your blind spot.

10. Can Offer Impressive Cargo Space

There’s enough cargo space in the Murano for groceries and recreational gear. However, fold-flat rear seats allow you to further expand the SUV’s storage capabilities. When making runs to the home improvement store, drivers certainly appreciate the extra space. You’ll also have no issues accommodating bikes and surfboards.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Nissan Murano – The Cons

1. Not a Good SUV for Towing

If you need to haul something like a boat, the 2020 Nissan Murano is not a good choice. It has a low towing capacity of only 1,500 pounds. Nissan focused more on making the Murano a comfy family hauler as opposed to a powerful towing machine. Most truck-based SUVs are far more suitable for the job. Even the Nissan Pathfinder can pull a 6,000-pound load.

2. Does Not Offer Sporty Handling

While the Murano is easy to drive, its handling could be a bit sharper. You will experience some body lean around curves. A comfort-tuned suspension limits the Murano’s athleticism. If handling is a big priority for you, take a serious look at the Honda CR-V. It has a more balanced feel on the road.

3. Not a Great Off-Road Vehicle

Folks who spend most of their time on the street will especially enjoy the 2020 Nissan Rogue. On the other hand, outdoor enthusiasts may desire a tougher SUV. The Murano does not offer rugged features like metal skid plates and heavy-duty shocks. If you enjoy driving through the backcountry, check out the Subaru Outback. This crossover is made to hit to hit the trails.

4. Outward Visibility Could Be Improved

It’s a good idea to get the Murano’s available blind-spot monitor. This crossover does not provide great outward visibility. Its small back window makes it harder for you to see vehicles approaching from the rear. The Murano’s tall hood can also cause visibility issues. When driving in crowded areas, keep an eye out from pedestrians crossing the street.

5. Infotainment System’s graphics

The Murano’s NissanConnect touchscreen is very simple to use. However, its graphics look old in comparison to some of today’s newer systems. While this may not be a problem for some people, others will desire higher resolution graphics.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

2020 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2020 Chevrolet Blazer has caught the attention of many car shoppers. It has impressed many critics with its sporty handling and cool exterior styling. However, this crossover does come up short in a couple of areas. A standard four-cylinder engine with 193 horsepower puts the Blazer at a disadvantage. To get a powerful V6, you must step up to a more expensive trim.

2020 Nissan Rogue

When shopping for a new crossover SUV, the Nissan Rogue is certainly worth considering. While the smaller Rogue may save more fuel, it doesn’t offer nearly as much performance as the Murano. The Rogue’s four-cylinder engine is simply no match from the Murano’s V6 engine. You can also expect the Murano to have a more luxurious feel on the inside. Furthermore, a wider cabin makes the Murano more suitable for a family of five.

2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge has a lot in common with the 2020 Nissan Murano. Both of these crossovers prove to be spacious and comfortable. However, a more refined interior gives the Murano a slight advantage. Some people will also be more drawn to the Murano’s bolder exterior styling.

Conclusion

It’s easy to recommend the 2020 Nissan Murano as your next automobile. While the Murano’s safety and comfort make it a very livable family vehicle, edgy styling helps it to make a serious fashion statement. Valuable features, like a large touchscreen with smartphone integration and forward collision braking, come standard. There are also some premium options available.

Is there anything bad about the 2020 Nissan Murano? Well, a low towing capacity does hamper the Murano’s versatility. You also should not attempt to take the Murano on a challenging off-road trail.